Title

Author

Abstract

In this thesis I investigate characteristics of turbulent flow in a channel where one of the walls has riblets, superhydrophobic microribs, or a hybrid surface with traditional riblets built on a superhydrophobic microrib surface. PIV measurements are used to find the velocity profile, the turbulent statistics, and shear stress profile in the rectangular channel with one wall having a structured test surface. Both riblets and superhydrophobic surfaces can each provide a reduction in the wall shear stress in a turbulent channel flow. Characterizing the features of the flow using particle image velocimetry (PIV) is the focus of this research. Superhydrophobicity results from the combination of a hydrophobic coating applied to a surface with microrib structures, resulting in a very low surface energy, such that the fluid does not penetrate in between the structures. The micro-rib structures are aligned in the streamwise flow direction. The riblets are larger than the micro-rib structure by an order of magnitude and protrude into the flow. All the test surfaces were produced on silicon wafers using photolithographic techniques. Pressure in the channel is maintained below the Laplace pressure for all testing, creating sustainable air pockets between the microribs. Velocity profiles, turbulent statistics, shear stress profiles, and friction factors are presented. Measurements were acquired for Reynolds numbers ranging from 4.5x10^3 to 2.0x10^4. Modest drag reductions were observed for the riblet surfaces. Substantial drag increase occurred over the superhydrophobic surfaces. The hybrid surfaces showed the greatest drag reduction. Turbulence production was strongly reduced during riblet and hybrid tests.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Mechanical Engineering